T he new Synergy Ex IE3 range of flameproof motors, designed by engineering components supplier BMG’s in-house engineering team in collaboration with global electric motor specialists, was launched last month at the Electra Mining Africa 2026 exhibition.

The new range has been developed to provide reliable power and appropriate protection for operations in hazardous surface and underground environments, and is used in applications including, pump, fan, compressor, conveyor and crusher applications.

BMG Electric Motors business unit manager Graeme Neilson explains that the Synergy Ex range – which will be available in motor sizes from 750 W to 250 kW in 2-pole, 4-pole and 6-pole versions – features solid construction for demanding applications, high reliability, long service life and proficient thermal performance.

Additionally, the range is certified for a maximum safe operating temperature of 180 oC , with class H insulation and fully-encased IP66 enclosure protection. This environmental protection ensures safe use in challenging operating conditions, further reducing downtime and maintenance requirements.

These motors are suitable for many applications in underground and surface coal, platinum, gold and copper mines, as well as other mineral operations.

“Power, protection and reliability are important requirements in hazardous-area motor applications. It is critical that the motor selected is suitable not only for the driven equipment, but also for the specific conditions in which it will operate,” says Neilson.

He explains that Synergy Ex motors are designed for applications where selection involves more than matching power and speed requirements.

“In hazardous areas, safety, certification, correct area classification and proven reliability are essential considerations.”

Mounting Variables

Neilson says that mounting flexibility for this range is also available where required.

“A flange ring can be added to convert a B3 motor to a B3/5 motor, without the need to remove the end shield,” he says, adding that this can assist where the installation requires flange mounting in addition to foot mounting.

However, BMG specialists emphasise that final motor selection must be based on the relevant area classification and operating conditions, with the applicable certification and technical documentation checked before installation.

“This selection process is particularly important because hazardous-area suitability is application-specific,” stresses Neilson.

Factors including the nature of the potentially explosive atmosphere, the gas group, permissible surface temperature, installation environment and operating duty must all be considered before equipment is specified.

Neilson points out that a motor failure in a mine or industrial plant can mean considerably more than the cost of a replacement motor.

“Lost production, maintenance expenditure and extended downtime can affect the efficiency of an entire operation.”

Therefore, BMG’s technical team assists customers in matching the motor to the hazardous-area classification, gas group, temperature class, power, speed, enclosure protection and duty requirements of the installation.

“BMG’s aim is to help customers select the correct motor for each application and keep essential equipment operating reliably,” concludes Neilson.